1. The Epidermis!

2. 5 Sub-layers of the Epidermis Stratum Corneum Stratum lucidum Stratum granulosum Stratum spinosum Stratum basale

3. Stratum Corneum Outermost layer of skin Many layers of keratinized, dead epithelial cells Flattened and non nucleated

4. Stratum lucidum Between the stratum corneum and stratum granulosum ONLY on soles of feet and palms of hands Cells appear clear (lucid)

5. Stratum granulosum Beneath the stratum corneum or stratum lucidum 3-5 layers of flattened cells Shriveled nuclei Small keratin fibers This is becoming the new layer of stratum corneum

6. Stratum spinosum Beneath the stratum granulosum Many layers of cells Becoming flattened Developing keratin fibers Nuclei still present

7. Stratum basale Deepest layer of EPIDERMIS Single row of cuboidal or columnar cells Divide and grow Contains melanocytes

8. What is Keratin? A waterproof fiber Tough Will fill up the cell to become the stratum corneum so it is waterproof and can withstand the harsh outer environment